My life as a dancer came to an end on February 15, 2009. That was the day I retired from the New York City Ballet. I knew a career transition was coming soon, but I hadn’t decided on the date until two weeks before. It was better that way for me. Two weeks gave me just enough time to say goodbye to the ballets I had left to dance without giving me too much time to second-guess myself…

At the intersection of dance and medicine is a shared understanding of the body’s power to heal. With the right treatment, dance medicine practitioner, and dedicated approach, the injured body of a dancer can reassemble its core elements so the body may return the spirit of that dancer to the stage where it yearns to be. By taking to the studio and stage again, that dancer can return to healing others…

Dance has always been at the center of my life. From beginner ballet classes at my local dance studio to performing at New York City Center, I have always put dance first and made it my top priority. When the time came to pick a path for my life, there was no question – I wanted to be a dancer and would do everything in my power to create that future for myself. Life, however, had other plans for me.

Being seen – being truly seen, and acknowledged for who you are – is a gift. To be understood, to be known, and to be met where you are at that moment, is irreplaceable. We, as dance medicine professionals, have the privilege of giving that gift every day. I will not take this for granted, and I walk into every session with my eyes wide open, ready to see.

This past year has heightened my awareness of how fortunate I am. I continue to have the opportunities to develop my skills as an artist and educator in a time of many obstacles and deprivation for others. I am surrounded by talented, determined, and like-minded collaborators that make such a difference.

Friday, March 13, 2020, my husband and I were driving to Vail from our apartment in Denver, CO. It was snowing and cold, and I was nervous but excited. I was 12 weeks post-op, just barely off crutches, but I was determined to get approval from my surgeon to start barre…

At the beginning of this year, I sprained my ankle and fractured my 5th metatarsal. In order to heal, I had to wear a boot for 6 weeks, as well as figure out how to keep the rest of my body in shape with it on. Right before the Covid 19 lockdown…